The album, on consignment with Cordier since March 12, sold during the auction house's Spring Antique & Fine Art Auction in Harrisburg. The seller has asked to remain anonymous, said Melanie Hartman, spokeswoman for Cordier.

The album images, shot by Italian/British photographer Felice Beato, are considered some of the oldest existing photos of China, according to Cordier. Beato also is considered one of the first war photographers, Cordier said.

Pehtang Fort, Aug. 1, 1860.Submitted.

Cordier saves high-ticket items for its spring and fall antique and art auctions, but Hartman said "items of this extraordinary value are extremely unusual."

Beato was able to capture the images as he accompanied the British army into China, Cordier said.

The photos detail strategic military positions, the landscape devastated by battle and buildings, including the Summer Palace, before they were decimated by the British, according to Cordier.

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